Police in Mombasa have arrested three suspects accused of robbing two Russian nationals of KSh 2.5 million while posing as short-term rental hosts. The incident occurred on January 19, 2025, in Bamburi, where the suspects allegedly lured the victims into a trap under the guise of offering Airbnb services.
According to investigators, the trio staged an elaborate scheme to deceive the unsuspecting Russians. Upon their arrival, the culprits brandished weapons and demanded money, threatening to kill them if they refused. The victims were forced to transfer 1,986,410 Russian Rubles online and hand over cash, including 1,500 Russian Rubles, 120 Dirhams, and KSh 45,000.
The suspects were arrested at a short-term rental facility in the Mwembeni area of Kisauni Sub-County. Following a Sunday robbery report, police tracked the perpetrators to their hideout at Badar House. They were arraigned before Shanzu Chief Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, where detectives were granted three days to complete investigations.
Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) detectives revealed that the suspects operated a sophisticated online dating site in collaboration with overseas accomplices. Their scheme involved scamming foreign clients and channeling stolen funds into international bank accounts. DCI boss Mohamed Amin stated that investigations are ongoing to address such crimes, which are becoming increasingly common.
“This trend is alarming, and we are using technology to track and solve these incidents,” Amin said.
The police noted a surge in online scams targeting unsuspecting buyers. Con artists often pose as sellers of goods, including furniture and household items, through social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Victims are duped into paying deposits for goods they never receive.
One prominent scam involves a furniture “seller” claiming to own a shop along Kangundo Road in Nairobi. Buyers pay deposits only to be met with abuse or silence when attempting to follow up. The DCI warned the public to remain vigilant and verify the legitimacy of online sellers before making payments.
Authorities have pledged to intensify efforts to combat online fraud, which has left many Kenyans and international visitors vulnerable. Investigations into this growing trend continue, with police relying on technology and intelligence to track down fraudsters and bring them to justice.
